Going around in circles is usually not a good thing, but when it comes to mowing fairways and tees it can be just what the turf needs. Circle mowing – where an operator continuously makes wide, overlapping turns – is an effective surface management technique for combating grain formation. Although it might look strange to […]

Most courses are operating with fewer staff members than they normally would at this time of year thanks to the COVID-19 virus. As a result, superintendents are doing all they can to optimize efficiency. One change that has been made at many courses is switching from walk mowing to triplexing putting greens. This change significantly […]

Broad-leaved helleborine (Epipactis helleborine) is quickly becoming a problem for gardeners and landscapers this spring. We have had multiple samples submitted to Michigan State University Plant & Pest Diagnostics. This plant is in the orchid family, Orchidaceae, and is sometimes referred to as a “weedy” orchid. It was intentionally introduced from Europe and is spreading […]

Seeing some leaf spot/net blotch (working on id) on tall fescue. Usually not a major issue, but frequent rain and cloud cover is perfect. Also tall fescue is likely in need of some N if it has not been fertilized. Photos courtesy of @lanetredway pic.twitter.com/H8aTvquvpR — Jim Kerns (@KernsJim) May 29, 2020

Well that escalated quickly- finding 1st through 5th instar ABW in Harrisburg. Went from avg age of 1.95 to 3.52 in 7 days. Pittsburgh should be similar. pic.twitter.com/cMXm7pACK2 — Ben McGraw, Ph.D. (@TurfEnto) May 29, 2020

Large patch, caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, is one of the most damaging diseases of warm-season turf species such as centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, zoysiagrass, and seashore paspalum. Bermudagrass rarely sustains significant damage from large patch and grows of out the symptoms quickly when the disease does occur. In general, development begins in the fall […]

For those managing St Augustine here in SC, be on the lookout for grey leaf spot development. Excellent symptoms showing at this location in high fertility areas. For those of you further north managing tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, it’s coming. pic.twitter.com/JoBGGT1j5a — Joseph Roberts (@ClemsonTurfPath) May 29, 2020

Persistent overcast and heavy rains are great for Pythium development. Be sure you are covered amidst recent conditions here in the Carolinas. pic.twitter.com/tXBszNmrz5 — Joseph Roberts (@ClemsonTurfPath) May 28, 2020